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As we head into summer the temperatures are going to start to climb. Working out during the heat creates its own set of issues that can effect performance. There is research out there that demonstrates heat can negatively impact marathon running performance from about 2% in elite competitors to as much as 10% in 3hr finishers1, with similar results being seen in elite cyclists2.

One of the quickest ways to ruin a summer workout is dehydration. In fact, even a loss of water of about 1.5-2% of a person’s Body Mass Index, or BMI, can negatively impact their ability to play in sports like soccer3, and effect their ability to perform in prolonged exercising >1hr4. Unfortunately, feeling thirsty is only one of the signs of dehydration, and research indicates that by the time you are feeling that thirsty you are all ready dehydrated. Typically dehydration symptoms can first be noticed as dry mouth, irritability/crankiness, headache, seeming bored or disinterested, dizziness, cramping, excessive fatigue, and not being able to run or play as fast as usual5. What to do if you feel you are dehydrated? Immediately move into a shaded or air conditioned area and start drinking fluids.

Here are some tips to help prevent dehydration from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association6 and allow you to continue to perform at your best this summer:

Consume 17-20 fl oz of water or sports drink 2-3 hrs before exercising.

Your goal should be to finish exercising and weigh within 2% of the weight you started exercising at.

Another quick guide would be to look at the color of your urine. If it is dark yellow to tea like that would indicate you are dehydrated. Urine color should be light or pale yellow to almost clear.

Finally, if you feel any of the symptoms of dehydration speak up. Talk to your workout partner, coach, or athletic trainer immediately as dehydration is the first of other heat related illness that could require greater levels of medical attention like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Following these simple guidelines could be the difference in keeping your competitive edge without compromising your health when training this summer.